The Galfa 81/3 calculator, introduced in 1976, is a vintage calculator that offers a blend of functionality and durability. Manufactured for Galeries Lafayette by Rockwell International in Japan, this calculator is a nice example of the technology available in the mid-1970s.
The Galfa 81/3 features a straightforward, brick-shaped design. Its dimensions are approximately 75mm x 155mm x 25mm (width, height, depth), and it weighs 138 grams without batteries. The calculator is powered by 4.5V DC, requiring three AA batteries, although the far left battery slot is non-functional. It also has the capability to accept an adaptor or charger through a socket on the top left side.
The calculator’s case is made of brown matte plastic with a black top, and the keyboard surround is a smooth cream plastic. The logo on the front is painted white, and the side rails are silver. The display is an 8-digit blue Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) with a ninth digit for negative and memory indicators. The keys are responsive and have a brown-orange color scheme. On the back, there is a reminder sticker with example calculations.
The Galfa 81/3 offers basic four-function capabilities, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It also features square roots, change sign, percentages, and a four-function memory. The calculator is known for its durability, with a design that has stood the test of time. However, it is noted that the silver trim and keyboard lettering can wear off, making it challenging to find models in pristine condition.
The calculator comes with a black soft plastic case that has a flip-top cover and a tuck-in tab at the front. It is essentially a branded version of the Rockwell 24RD-II.
Logic:
- The Clear key (CE/C) clears an input number with one press and completely resets the calculator with a second press.
- Overflow on the input of a number is suppressed; a ninth digit is ignored.
- The change sign function can be used before, during, or after number entry.
- The constant function is automatic on all four functions.
- Negative numbers are indicated by a “-” sign in the far left (ninth) digit, allowing for full eight-digit negative numbers.
- Negative square roots are permitted and result in a negative answer.
- A divide by zero shows “0.0.0.0.0.0.0.0” and is recoverable using (CE/C).
- Overflow shows the result with all decimal points lit and is recoverable by using (CE).
- Memory storage is indicated by the ninth (far left) digit decimal point being lit.
- Overflow in memory is indicated and retains the original number.
- It has a pseudo fixed decimal bug: keying (1)(+)(.)(0)(0)(0)(=) results in “1.000,” which remains a fixed three-digit decimal until more digits are needed or multiply/divide is used.
The Galfa 81/3 calculator is an interesting calculator with a simple design and practical features. Its logic is straightforward, though it has a few quirks, such as allowing negative square roots and a pseudo fixed decimal bug. Overall, it is a durable and functional calculator from its era.
